A useful desk is not always an empty desk. It is a place where the next small task can happen without moving half a room. Instead of organising every object, begin with one working patch and the few things the task needs.
Clear a page-sized patch
Make enough room to open a notebook and rest your hand beside it. Move unrelated objects to a temporary tray. You can sort them later; the first aim is to create a usable surface.
Sit down and test the space. Can you write without nudging a stack? Does the lamp put the page in shadow? Arrange the light and tools around the activity, rather than around a picture of an ideal desk.
Keep the frequent tools close
Put your everyday pen, pencil and current notebook within easy reach. Keep occasional tools nearby but off the working patch. A simple cup or shallow box is often enough.
Do not buy storage before seeing what needs a place. Try an arrangement with what you have, then adjust it after a few ordinary sessions.
End with a small return
Before leaving, close the notebook or mark the page you want to return to. Put the tool back beside it and clear anything that would obstruct the next task. This takes less effort than a full tidy.
Leave a brief note if it helps: next, rewrite the opening; next, check the list; next, finish the sketch. A concrete next step is easier to meet than a vague intention to be productive.